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Royal Navy Seeks Suppliers for Drone Submarine Development

Royal Navy Seeks Suppliers for Drone Submarine Development

First seen 12 Oct 2026, 21:30 UTC • •
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ThreatCluster AI
ThreatCluster •October 12, 2026 at 21:31 UTC
  • •Royal Navy invites suppliers for Type 93 XLUUV development.
  • •Engagement supports AUKUS commitments and Type 93 capabilities.
  • •Excalibur submarine has demonstrated successful interoperability.

The Royal Navy has initiated preliminary market engagement for the Type 93 extra-large uncrewed underwater vehicle (XLUUV) and the AUKUS Signature Payload Programme. This engagement aims to gather interest from various suppliers, including XLUUV platform providers, technology suppliers, and integrators. The Royal Navy is exploring platforms approximately 2 meters in diameter and 12 meters in length, but other dimensions are also welcome. The notice highlights the importance of this initiative in supporting the Type 93 capability and commitments under the AUKUS Pillar II project. The Royal Navy's existing uncrewed submarine, Excalibur, has already demonstrated interoperability with the U.S. during exercises. This engagement does not imply a commitment to future procurement activities.

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Timeline

2025-05-01
Excalibur unveiled
The Royal Navy unveiled the Excalibur uncrewed submarine, built by MSubs under Project Cetus.
Ukdefencejournal.Uk
2025-07-01
First interoperability demonstration
Excalibur was controlled by the Royal Navy in Australia during Talisman Sabre, showcasing XLUUV interoperability.
Ukdefencejournal.Uk
2025-09-01
Excalibur conducts underwater operation
Excalibur performed the first underwater operation of a quantum optical atomic clock, marking a significant milestone.
Ukdefencejournal.Uk
2026-10-12
Market engagement notice published
The Royal Navy published a notice inviting suppliers to register interest in the Type 93 and AUKUS Signature Payload Programme.
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Common questions

What is the Type 93 programme?
The Type 93 programme focuses on developing extra-large uncrewed underwater vehicles to enhance the Royal Navy's capabilities.
Who can participate in the market engagement?
The Royal Navy invites XLUUV platform providers, technology suppliers, and integrators to register their interest.
What is the significance of the AUKUS partnership?
AUKUS enhances defense collaboration between the UK, Australia, and the US, particularly in advanced military technologies.